In a surprising turn of events, David Warner, the IPL’s highest overseas run-getter, went unsold on the first day of the IPL 2025 mega-auction. Despite his stellar career, no franchise showed interest in the 38-year-old Australian batter during the initial round. Warner will have another opportunity in the accelerated round on Day 2, but his failure to attract bids has left fans and experts shocked.

Warner’s recent form played a crucial role in this outcome. After leading Delhi Capitals in IPL 2023, he endured a forgettable IPL 2024 season, managing just 168 runs in eight matches, his lowest tally since his debut season in 2009.

The opener’s performance seemingly deterred his former teams, Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, from bidding for him, even though he remains one of the most decorated players in IPL history.

Highest overseas run-scorer in IPL history, David Warner fails to attract bidders 

Making his IPL debut in 2009, Warner has been a prolific performer, scoring 6565 runs in 184 matches, including four centuries.

He is the only player to win the Orange Cap three times, underlining his consistency over the years. However, age and recent struggles appear to have overshadowed his past achievements.

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Before the auction, it was anticipated that Warner might command a lower price compared to his previous deals, but going unsold in the initial round was totally unexpected. Fans and franchises alike will be keen to see if the veteran batter can find a team in the upcoming accelerated round.

Warner’s unsold status serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the Indian Premier League, where past records often take a back seat to current form.